§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action she is able to take to make orders for spot listing of historic buildings where the owners refuse access or are otherwise not cooperative. [106660]
§ Dr. HowellsWhen some buildings are being considered for listing under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, English Heritage can advise without requiring access to the property. In cases where a closer survey is necessary, English Heritage will try to work with the owners to arrange a visit. Should this not be possible, however, as a last resort the Secretary of State has the power, under Section 88 of the above Act, to authorise entry.
§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many applications for the spot listing of historic buildings were(a) granted and (b) refused in the last 12 months. [106661]
748W
§ Dr. HowellsDuring the 12-month period to 31 December 2002, 297 applications for the spot listing of historic buildings were granted. During the same period, around 700 applications were refused as the buildings were deemed by the Secretary of State not to meet the criteria for listing as set out in the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, and Planning Policy Guidance Note 15: Planning and the Historic Environment.